In a recent incident that has sparked widespread discussion, Indian cricket star Virat Kohli was visibly angered during a practice session in Sri Lanka when a fan called him ‘Chokli.’ The term, a derogatory nickname combining Kohli’s surname with the word ‘choking,’ has been used by trolls to criticize his performance in high-pressure matches. The incident occurred on July 31, 2024, at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, where Kohli was preparing for the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka
SOURCE : ZEE
Kohli, who was shadow practicing with his teammates, was interrupted by a fan chanting “Chokli-Chokli.” The cricketer’s reaction was immediate and intense. He turned to face the fan, his displeasure evident, and firmly responded, “Not here,” silencing the crowd. The video of the incident quickly went viral on social media, drawing a mix of reactions from fans and netizens
Source:- BBC news
The term ‘Chokli’ gained notoriety after India’s elimination from the 2019 World Cup, where Kohli was dismissed for just one run. This was the third time he had been out for a single run in an ICC knockout game, with similar dismissals occurring in the 2015 World Cup semifinal against Australia and the 2017 Champions Trophy final against Pakistan. The nickname has since been used by trolls to mock Kohli’s performance in crucial matches, despite his otherwise stellar career
The viral video of Kohli’s reaction has elicited a range of responses. While some fans criticized the fan’s behavior, others defended Kohli, praising his dedication and contributions to Indian cricket. One user commented, “Your irrelevant tweet doesn’t change the fact he is the GOAT,” while another wrote, “This is exactly what I expect from uncultured fans”. The incident has reignited discussions about the pressures faced by athletes and the impact of social media trolling on their mental health.
Despite the incident, Kohli remains focused on his game. He recently returned from a family vacation in London, where he spent quality time with his wife, Anushka Sharma, and their children, Vamika and Akaay. Kohli’s impressive record against Sri Lanka, with 2595 runs from 25 ODIs at an average of 63.26, including 10 centuries, underscores his form and confidence as he prepares for the upcoming series.
The ODI series against Sri Lanka will be Kohli’s first 50-over match for India since the 2023 World Cup final. With the Champions Trophy 2025 just seven months away, Kohli is expected to bring his best game to the field in pursuit of another ICC title. His dominance at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium, where his statistics are particularly remarkable, adds to the anticipation.
The incident has also highlighted the broader issue of athlete treatment by fans and the media. Kohli’s reaction serves as a reminder of the human side of sports, where athletes, despite their fame and success, are not immune to criticism and negativity. The support from his fans and the cricketing community underscores the respect and admiration he commands, even in the face of adversity.
As Virat Kohli gears up for the ODI series against Sri Lanka, the incident serves as a poignant reminder of the pressures and challenges faced by athletes. Kohli’s response to the derogatory chant reflects his resilience and determination to rise above negativity. With his focus firmly on the game, fans eagerly await his performance, hoping to see him continue his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest players.
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